NSG Urfttal mit Seitentaelern noerdlich und westlich von Nettersheim

Summary

The Urft Valley nature reserve near Nettersheim protects unique beech and orchid forests, diverse grasslands, and the Urft river. It's vital for rare bats, fish, and butterflies, showcasing rich biodiversity and historical relics.

Description

The Urft Valley nature reserve, located near Nettersheim, is a significant protected area known for its exceptional natural and cultural heritage. It encompasses extensive, near-natural beech forests, including unique masterwort-beech and orchid-beech forests, along with vital alder-ash and soft-wood alluvial forests along the Urft river. The diverse landscape features moist tall herb communities, mountain hay meadows, and nutrient-poor grasslands, which provide habitats for a rich variety of flora, including numerous orchid species. The flowing waters of the Urft support important underwater vegetation and rare fish like the European brook lamprey, grayling, and bullhead. Underground, karst caves and old tunnels serve as crucial winter quarters for many bat species, including the greater mouse-eared bat, Bechstein's bat, and pond bat, as well as amphibians and insects. The area also preserves historically valuable dry and semi-dry grasslands, alongside remarkable geological formations. Beyond its natural treasures, the reserve holds cultural significance with traces of ancient agricultural terraces, Roman water pipelines, roads, and settlement remains, adding layers of history to its distinct beauty. This area is a cornerstone for biodiversity in Nordrhein-Westfalen.